Ranking the Carolina Panthers’ 2020 opponents by toughness
By Dean Jones
Los Angeles Chargers. 9. team. 13. . .
Carolina Panthers schedule toughness: Los Angeles Chargers (No. 9)
The Los Angeles Chargers parted ways with long-serving quarterback Philip Rivers this offseason. And whether No. 6 overall selection Justin Herbert is ready to come in and start right away is something that will probably be decided in camp.
Tyrod Taylor could fill the void in the short-term while the former Oregon man gets up to speed. And there are some prominent playmakers in the form of Keenan Allen., Hunter Henry, Mike Williams, and Austin Ekeler.
They also look strong on the defensive side of the ball. Derwin James made an encouraging return from injury in 2019. And the pass-rushing tandem of Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa have no trouble getting to the quarterback.
. . Las Vegas Raiders. 8. team. 28.
Carolina Panthers’ schedule toughness: Las Vegas Raiders (No. 8)
A new era dawns for the Raiders with their team about to embark on their first-ever campaign in Las Vegas. The Carolina Panthers play them in week one, which might be the best time to catch a young and talented roster off guard.
Head coach Jon Gruden and general manager Mike Mayock have been extremely shrewd with their draft picks and free-agent recruits since joining the franchise. This has left them with a gifted roster from top-to-bottom that can shine if quarterback Derek Carr plays well.
This is a pivotal season for the signal-caller. Any signs of regression and it may force the Raiders to go in a different direction in pursuit of a postseason berth.
. . . Arizona Cardinals. 7. team. 32
Carolina Panthers’ schedule toughness: Arizona Cardinals (No. 7)
Big things are expected of the Arizona Cardinals and their sophomore quarterback Kyler Murray in 2020. The former No. 1 overall pick showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season. And much more will be expected with a better supporting cast around him.
The most prominent arrival is wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who they acquire for a pittance in a trade with the Houston Texans. This gives Murray a prolific presence on the outside that he can utilize at will.
Their defense also demonstrated some promise in 2019. And although they find themselves in a tough division. It would be a surprise if they weren’t in the playoff picture.